1.14 Ensure that users can get to the device along an unobstructed path and operate it from a stable position

Contents

The path to public telephones must be free from obstacles such as steps, bins or signage that would obstruct the progress of users who are either walking or using a mobility aid such as a wheelchair or motorised buggy. This includes the path into any room or area containing the telephone. The user should be able to operate the telephone from a clear, flat area large enough to manoeuvre mobility aids such as a wheelchair or buggy.

Rationale

Users with restricted mobility who use wheelchairs, motorised buggies or walking frames may have difficulty getting around obstacles placed in the path to the telephone. Steps can cause particularly severe or insurmountable problems. In order to operate the telephone they will have to manoeuvre themselves to be close enough to it. Then when they have finished they will have to manoeuvre themselves out again, preferably without having to go backwards.

Having reached the telephone, users will need a stable platform from which to operate it.

Directions and Techniques

Provide a shallow ramp rather than steps

If it is necessary to raise the operating area above normal street or floor level, provide a ramp with a maximum slope of 6%.

Provide a clear, level operating area large enough to turn a wheelchair or buggy

Provide a clear area of 1.5 metres radius directly in front of the telephone, with a floor surface that is level in a direction parallel to the facia of the telephone. The gradient of any crossfall should not exceed 1 in 20.

Wheelchair clearance and turning circleA wheelchair user requires a corridor of 0.9m in width to access a device and a minimum of 1.5m to make a complete turn comfortably.

Refer to anthropometrical data

Refer to appropriate physical design guidelines or building accessibility guidelines. The United Nations have a useful set of anthropometrical data covering required path dimensions for wheelchairs.